No, it’s never too late to start a fitness journey, no matter how long you’ve struggled with body image. Many people find healing and strength through exercise, especially when they shift their focus from appearance to overall well-being. Even small, gentle steps like walking or strength training can help you build a positive relationship with your body.
To stay away from diet culture, focus on movement that feels good rather than exercise that’s solely about weight loss. Begin by setting goals that emphasize health and strength, like improving stamina or building muscle. Listening to your body and practicing self-kindness can also make fitness enjoyable rather than stressful.
Yes, fitness can improve body image if approached with a mindset of self-care rather than self-punishment. Activities like strength training, yoga, or even walking can help you appreciate your body for what it can do. Focusing on performance goals rather than appearance helps create a healthier relationship with fitness.
For someone in recovery, fitness should be approached with flexibility and patience. Start with low-intensity activities and increase gradually. Prioritize nourishing foods without restrictions, and avoid tracking calories or obsessing over weight. Practicing mindfulness and focusing on how your body feels during movement is also helpful.
Setting fitness goals that don’t focus on weight loss can be empowering and refreshing. Try goals like improving endurance, increasing strength, mastering a new skill, or simply feeling more energetic. Tracking your progress through how you feel, rather than by numbers, can help make fitness an enjoyable part of your life.
